Yahoo News Crowds turn out as Lanark lights up for Christmas and market returns to town
Hundreds of happy little faces beamed as the switch was flicked on the Christmas lights in Lanark.
The beginning of the festive period officially got underway as the massed crowds thronged the streets for the build-up before Santa lit up the town.
Hosted by South Lanarkshire Council, there was live entertainment from 2pm to keep the crowds happy until darkness fell and the main event at 5pm when the town’s streets and St Nicholas’ Church instantly sparkled as the lights came on.
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It wasn’t just the first day for the lights to shine, the lively annual Lanark Christmas Market also got underway with over 70 stalls in the High Street offering up a host of items for those looking to purchase a few gifts or enjoy festive food and drink.
Antonia Pompa, BID Manager at Discover Lanark, was among the crowds as the excitement built at what is always a wonderful time of the year in the town.
She said: “It looks really nice, the lights are all on and the tree looks spectacular.
“It was very successful and we had a very busy day. The market is all the way along the High Street and offers all sorts of food and drink, clothing and accessories, and all sorts of Christmas gifts.
“The market was really busy all day and that translated to the shops and cafes being busy too. There was a great atmosphere in town that was really nice to experience. And Santa was there of course to switch on the lights.
“We had a number of local groups performing and hey drew very good crowds and then we had the SoundSational Choir and MacBusted, who were very popular.
As well as the musical entertainment there were a number of games and family fun to enjoy.
This Friday, November 22, the enchanting Illuminated Lanimer Parade will take place and late night shopping will return from 5pm to 8pm.
Lanark Christmas Pop-Up Market on Saturday, 7 December will feature over 30 local artisans and producers, open from 10am to 3pm, giving visitors another chance to find one-of-a-kind, locally-made gifts.
Santa will be returning to Lanark with his elves and Poppy the cheeky penguin for two Santa Saturdays on December 14 and 21 from 11.30am to 3.30pm in the Tolbooth.
Families can enjoy storytelling, holiday crafts, photos with Santa, and a meet-and-greet with Santa himself.
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